Katy’s Spotlight on Women - Dr. Lauren Rhodes
By Katy Young Staudt, Vice President at TurnkeyZRG
I’m excited to spotlight another amazing woman in college athletics this month, Dr. Lauren Rhodes.
Lauren joined Penn State as the senior associate AD, student-athlete performance, health and welfare and senior woman administrator (SWA) in August 2021. She made the move to Happy Valley after spending seven years at Jacksonville University, most recently serving as the deputy athletic director/SWA. She also just welcomed a baby girl, Taytem to the world! Cheers to you, Lauren. Another incredible “Super Mom” leading the way in college athletics.
Catching up with Lauren
Born:
Washington, D.C.
Education:
University of Maryland, Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Georgetown University, Master of Professional Studies in Sports Industry Management
Jacksonville University, Master of Business Administration
Jacksonville University, Doctor of Business Administration
Family:
Jared (husband), Ryleigh (7), and Taytem (11 weeks)
What do you love most about your current job?
Supporting elite student-athletes and coaches academically, athletically, and personally.
What advice would you give to a young person looking work in college athletics?
Raise your hand for all opportunities, and never forget your why!
Who has had the biggest impact/influence on your career in college athletics (and why)?
Jacksonville University, VP for Intercollegiate Athletics Alex Ricker-Gilbert. He believed in me and provided me with every opportunity to learn and grow in this space.
What is the best/most memorable sporting event you’ve attended?
The Penn State White Out… it’s literally the greatest show in sports!
Favorite Quote?
“(1) You’re good, but you’re not that good. (2) Life is not a dress rehearsal. (3) You can do hard things” (Janna Blais, Northwestern)
What is your guilty pleasure?
Binge watching tv shows (New Girl, Emily in Paris, Ted Lasso, etc.) until 3AM while eating anything with peanut butter!
Best restaurant in State College?
Plaza Mexican!